“Getting Better” found its way into a show for the first time since 2003, as did “You Never Give Me Your Money” as part of an Abbey Road medley, which also included “She Came In Through The Bathroom Window” making its first appearance in a McCartney set since 2008. While much of the setlist echoed those songs played on his “Freshen Up Tour” in 2019, there were some noteworthy additions. His voice, though, remains in fine form, holding up remarkably well over a three-hour set even if his distinct screams aren’t quite as vivid as they used to be.

Still remarkably energetic and spry as he readies to turn 80 in June, McCartney’s age is showing in his face, a somewhat jarring juxtaposition if the last time you saw him was in the Get Back doc. The youthful McCartney on display via video was a stark contrast to the real-life McCartney on stage, at least physically.

The “Got Back” tour moniker is an obvious nod to the film, but its presence was felt most dramatically when McCartney returned to stage for his encore (carrying a Ukrainian flag in a nod to the world outside the arena) and said, “You want some more? We have something special for you.” McCartney made mention of Jackson’s film more than once Thursday night, incorporating several clips into his splashy video display that engulfed the rear of the stage. Among four unquestionable geniuses, the youthful McCartney (just 26 during the recording of Let It Be documented in Jackson’s film) clearly was the leader of the pack. But the pandemic pause that pushed McCartney off the road in 2019 and forced the cancellation of a planned lengthy 2020 tour added to the excitement of his return to the live stage Thursday.Īnd Peter Jackson’s 2021 The Beatles: Get Back documentary remarkably managed to raise McCartney’s profile to new heights as both casual fans and Beatles fanatics got a new glimpse into just what a driving, creative force he was in the context of the Fab Four. Someone like McCartney doesn’t need any additional hype to pack his concerts, given the generations of fans on hand thrilled to be experiencing just a taste of Beatlemania in person. Editor's Pick George Harrison’s Son Dhani on the “Pandora’s Box” Process of Remastering All Things Must Pass at 50

Paul mccartney tour 2021